Biomarker Lens

Biomarkers · Chemical

Cholesterol

What it measures

Also listed as
total cholesterol, serum cholesterol
Tests in the graph that measure it
12

A plain-language description with its source has not been added for this biomarker yet. What the laboratories say about the tests that measure it is below.

Tests that measure Cholesterol

Lipoprotein Fractionation Ultracentrifugation

Laboratory
Quest Diagnostics
Test code
36435
Specimen
Serum
Fasting
Required

What the laboratory says this test is for

This panel measures serum concentrations of total cholesterol, triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and provides a calculated concentration of very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) cholesterol. Comprehensive lipid assessment aids in evaluating cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk and the likelihood of an ischemic event. It is also useful for the prevention and management of atherosclerotic disease and diagnosis of metabolic syndrome [1].CVD is the leading cause of death in the United States. Individuals with high LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels are at elevated risk for developing CVD and having an ischemic event [2,3]. The American Heart Association recommends that Americans aged 20 and above have their lipid levels tested every 4 to 6 years. Children should have their cholesterol tested for the first time between ages 9 and 11 and again between ages 17 and 21. Testing should start earlier if there is a family history of high cholesterol [4].Treatment with N-acetyl cysteine for acetaminophen overdose may generate a falsely low result for cholesterol [5]. Venipuncture immediately after or during administration of the painkiller metamizole (dipyrone) may also lead to falsely low results for cholesterol [6].Note: Any or all individual tests from a panel can be ordered separately.The results of this test should be interpreted in the context of pertinent clinical and family history as well as physical examination findings.References1. Stone NJ, et al. Circulation. 2014;129(25 Suppl 2):S1-S45.2. CDC. Heart disease facts. Accessed January 3, 2022. https://www.cdc.gov/heartdisease/facts.htm3. Arbel Y, et al. Card Diabetol. 2016;15:11.4. Grundy SM, et al. Circulation. 2019;139(25):e1082-e1143.5. Beckman Coulter AU analyzers. Instructions for use. Beckman Coulter Inc; 2015. Accessed January 19, 2023. https://www.beckmancoulter.com/wsrportal/techdocs?docname=/cis/BAOSR6X16/%25%25/EN_CHOL%20OSR%20General%20Chemistry.pdf6. Gascon N, et al. Clin Chem. 1993;39(6):1033-1036.

Quest Diagnostics test directory, test code 36435

Cholesterol and HDL Cholesterol with Ratio

Laboratory
Quest Diagnostics
Test code
7432
Specimen
Serum
Fasting
Required

What the laboratory says this test is for

This panel measures serum concentrations of total cholesterol and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol and provides a calculated total cholesterol/HDL cholesterol ratio. Measurements of cholesterol in conjunction with lipoproteins are used primarily in the risk assessment of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) [1].Elevated total cholesterol is an established risk factor for atherosclerotic coronary disease [1]. HDL cholesterol level has been inversely related to the ASCVD risk, whereas very high HDL levels may increase all-cause mortality [2]. The cholesterol/HDL cholesterol ratio, also known as atherogenic or Castelli index, has been proposed as a stronger predictor of ASCVD risk than total cholesterol or HDL cholesterol alone [3].Treatment with N-acetyl cysteine for acetaminophen overdose may generate a falsely low result for cholesterol [4]. Venipuncture immediately after or during administration of the painkiller metamizole (dipyrone) may also lead to falsely low results for cholesterol [5].Note: Any or all individual tests from a panel can be ordered separately.The results of this test should be interpreted in the context of pertinent clinical and family history as well as physical examination findings.References1. Meeusen J, et al. Lipids and lipoproteins. In: Rifai R, et al. eds. Tietz Textbook of Laboratory Medicine. 7th ed. Elsevier Inc; 2022.2. Madsen CM, et al. Eur Heart J. 2017;38(32):2478-2486.3. Millan J, et al. Vasc Health Risk Manag. 2009;5:757-765.4. Beckman Coulter AU analyzers. Instructions for use. Beckman Coulter Inc; 2015. Accessed January 19, 2023. https://www.beckmancoulter.com/wsrportal/techdocs?docname=/cis/BAOSR6X16/%25%25/EN_CHOL%20OSR%20General%20Chemistry.pdf5. Gascon N, et al. Clin Chem. 1993;39(6):1033-1036.

Quest Diagnostics test directory, test code 7432

ASCVD Risk Panel with Score

Laboratory
Quest Diagnostics
Test code
92053
Specimen
Serum
Fasting
Required

What the laboratory says this test is for

This panel provides the 10-year and lifetime risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) using lipid results with anthropomorphic data and family history. The ASCVD risk assessment is recommended in the 2013 ACC/AHA Guidelines on the Treatment of Blood Cholesterol to Reduce Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Risk in Adults.

Quest Diagnostics test directory, test code 92053

Lipid Panel Non-Fasting without Triglycerides

Laboratory
Quest Diagnostics
Test code
91247
Specimen
Serum
Fasting
Required

What the laboratory says this test is for

This Lipid Panel includes Total Cholesterol, HDL Cholesterol and calculated non-HDL Cholesterol. It does not include triglycerides and may be best used in patients for whom fasting is difficult.

Quest Diagnostics test directory, test code 91247

Lipid Panel with Ratios

Laboratory
Quest Diagnostics
Test code
19543
Specimen
Serum
Fasting
Required

What the laboratory says this test is for

This panel measures serum cholesterol and triglyceride (TG) levels. It includes evaluation of the LDL/HDL ratio (calculated), cholesterol/HDL-C ratio (calculated), HDL-C, LDL-C (calculated), non-HDL-C (calculated), total cholesterol, and TG. Comprehensive lipid assessment aids in evaluating cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk and the likelihood of an ischemic event. It is also useful for the prevention and management of atherosclerotic disease and diagnosis of metabolic syndrome [1].CVD is the leading cause of death in the United States. Individuals with high LDL-C and TG levels are at elevated risk for developing CVD and having an ischemic event [2,3]. The American Heart Association recommends that Americans aged 20 and above have their lipid levels tested every 4 to 6 years. Children should have their cholesterol tested for the first time between ages 9 and 11 and again between ages 17 and 21. Testing should start earlier if there is a family history of high cholesterol [4].This panel reports a calculated LDL/HDL ratio in addition to all the components included in Lipid Panel, Standard (test code 7600). High LDL/HDL ratio may be a stronger predictor of coronary heart disease than LDL and HDL alone in patients with hypertriglyceridemia [5].Treatment with N-acetyl cysteine for acetaminophen overdose may generate a falsely low result for cholesterol [6]. Venipuncture immediately after or during administration of the painkiller metamizole (dipyrone) may also lead to falsely low results for cholesterol [7].Note: Any or all individual tests from a panel can be ordered separately.The results of this test should be interpreted in the context of pertinent clinical and family history as well as physical examination findings.References1. Stone NJ, et al. Circulation. 2014;129(25 Suppl 2):S1-S45.2. CDC. Heart disease facts. Accessed January 3, 2022. https://www.cdc.gov/heartdisease/facts.htm3. Arbel Y, et al. Card Diabetol. 2016;15:11.4. Grundy SM, et al. Circulation. 2019;139(25):e1082-e1143.5. Manninen V, et al. Circulation. 1992;85(1):37-45.6. Cholesterol. Instructions for use. Beckman Coulter Inc; 2015.7. Gascon N, et al. Clin Chem. 1993;39(6):1033-1036.

Quest Diagnostics test directory, test code 19543

Lipid Panel with Reflex to Direct LDL

Laboratory
Quest Diagnostics
Test code
14852
Specimen
Serum
Fasting
Required

What the laboratory says this test is for

The Lipid Panel with Reflex to Direct LDL panel includes evaluation of total cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol, triglyceride (TG), LDL-cholesterol (calculated), cholesterol/HDL ratio (calculated), and non-HDL cholesterol; direct LDL-C measurement will be performed at additional cost if the TG level is >400 mg/dL. This panel is useful in the detection, classification, and monitoring of hyperlipidemia, especially those expected to have highly elevated TG levels. LDL-C is widely accepted as a key factor for assessing the risk of coronary artery disease (CAD) [1]. The American Heart Association recommends lipid testing for adults over the age of 20 every 4 to 6 years [2]. Direct LDL-C measurement is more accurate than calculated LDL-C for patients with TG levels >400 mg/dL, and patients with hyperlipoproteinemia type III (dysbetalipoproteinemia). Thus, as indicated above, this panel is especially useful for individuals likely to have highly elevated TG and provides a basis for more realistic assessment of CAD risk in this group. It may also help track treatment progress by allowing healthcare practitioners to evaluate overall lipid levels, as well as direct LDL-C [3]. In addition to genetic causes that lead to highly elevated TG levels, certain medical conditions can also increase TG, including diabetes, thyroid disease, liver and kidney diseases, and obesity [4]. Calculated LDL values have a variance of 11% to 26%, whereas direct LDL-C values have a variance of less than 4% [5]. In rare cases, gammopathy, especially monoclonal IgM (Waldenstrom’s macroglobulinemia), may cause unreliable results. References 1. Grundy SM, et al. Circulation. 2019;139:e1082-e1143. 2. Stone NJ, et al. Circulation. 2014;129 (suppl 2):S1-S45. 3. Armbruster DA, Lambert PA. Lab Med. 1996;9:613-617. 4. NHLBI. High blood triglycerides. https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/high-blood-triglycerides. 5. Schectman G, et al. Clin Chem. 1994;39:1495-1503.

Quest Diagnostics test directory, test code 14852

Lipid Panel with TriglyceridesHDL-Cholesterol

Laboratory
Quest Diagnostics
Test code
37848
Specimen
Serum
Fasting
Required

What the laboratory says this test is for

The lipid panel is used to determine an individual's risk of developing cardiovascular disease and to monitor the efficacy of therapy or lifestyle changes.

Quest Diagnostics test directory, test code 37848

Cholesterol Total

Laboratory
Quest Diagnostics
Test code
334
Specimen
Serum
Fasting
Required

What the laboratory says this test is for

Total LDL and HDL cholesterol, in conjunction with a triglyceride determination, provide valuable information for the risk of coronary artery disease. Total serum cholesterol analysis is useful in the diagnosis of hyperlipoproteinemia, atherosclerosis, hepatic and thyroid diseases.

Quest Diagnostics test directory, test code 334

Metabolic Syndrome and Glucose Control Including Insulin

Laboratory
Quest Diagnostics
Test code
91398
Specimen
Serum
Fasting
Required

What the laboratory says this test is for

Identifying patients who have metabolic syndrome and who are thus at higher risk of diabetes, coronary heart disease or stroke. Identifying patients who are insulin resistant (fasting insulin at or above the 75th percentile) and who are thus at higher risk of diabetes, coronary heart disease, stroke, or liver disease. Monitoring of risk factors and insulin levels after life style change, medication use, or both.

Quest Diagnostics test directory, test code 91398

Diabetes Risk Panel with Score

Laboratory
Quest Diagnostics
Test code
92027
Specimen
Serum
Fasting
Required

What the laboratory says this test is for

To assist with control of blood glucose levels, the American Diabetes Association (ADA) has recommended glycated hemoglobin testing (HbA1c) twice a year for patients with stable glycemia, and quarterly for patients with poor glucose control. Interpretative ranges are based on ADA guidelines.

Quest Diagnostics test directory, test code 92027

Diabetes and ASCVD Risk Panel with Scores

Laboratory
Quest Diagnostics
Test code
92062
Specimen
Serum
Fasting
Required

What the laboratory says this test is for

To assist with control of blood glucose levels, the American Diabetes Association (ADA) has recommended glycated hemoglobin testing (HbA1c) twice a year for patients with stable glycemia, and quarterly for patients with poor glucose control. Interpretative ranges are based on ADA guidelines.

Quest Diagnostics test directory, test code 92062

Lipid Panel Standard

Laboratory
Quest Diagnostics
Test code
7600
Specimen
Serum
Fasting
Required

What the laboratory says this test is for

The Lipid Panel, Standard measures serum cholesterol and triglyceride (TG) levels; it includes evaluation of the cholesterol/HDL-C ratio (calculated), HDL-C, LDL-C (calculated), non-HDL-C (calculated), total cholesterol, and TG. Comprehensive lipid assessment aids in the evaluation of cardiovascular risk and the likelihood of suffering an ischemic event. It is also useful for the prevention and management of atherosclerotic disease, as well as the diagnosis of metabolic syndrome [1]. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death in the United States. The risk of developing CVD and having an ischemic event is significantly increased in individuals with high LDL-cholesterol (LDL-C) and TG levels [2,3]. The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends that Americans aged 20 and above have their lipid levels tested every 4 to 6 years. Children should have their cholesterol tested for the first time between ages 9 and 11, and again between ages 17 and 21. Testing should start earlier if there is family history of high cholesterol [4]. The AHA recommends repeat measurement of LDL-C within 4 to 12 weeks of starting or changing lipid-lowering therapy, to assess response and adherence, and then every 3 to 12 months as appropriate [4]. Treatment with N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) for acetaminophen overdose may generate a falsely low result for cholesterol. Venipuncture immediately after or during administration of the painkiller metamizole (dipyrone) may also lead to falsely low results for cholesterol. Note: Any or all individual tests from a panel can be ordered separately. References 1. Stone NJ, et al. Circulation. 2014;129(suppl 2):S1-S45. 2. CDC. Heart disease fact sheet. Reviewed August 23, 2017. https://www.cdc.gov/dhdsp/data_statistics/fact_sheets/fs_heart_disease.htm 3. Arbel Y, et al. Card Diabetol. 2016;15:11. 4. AHA. Cholesterol management guide for healthcare practitioners. November 10, 2018. https://www.heart.org/-/media/files/health-topics/cholesterol/chlstrmngmntgd_181110.pdf

Quest Diagnostics test directory, test code 7600

About this page

Everything above is drawn from the named sources and shown as they published it. Reference ranges belong to the laboratory that issued them and the population it named; they are not a universal normal. This page describes the biomarker in general and does not interpret anyone's result. For your own numbers, talk to a clinician, or use Aumnivida, which reads the same graph next to your records.

Found an error? Write to hello@biomarkerlens.com with the page link and the source that contradicts it.